Quick answer
Take BC Ferries from Tsawwassen (south of Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (north of Victoria). The crossing takes about 1 hour 35 minutes. Adult fares are $21 at the terminal, and a standard vehicle is $89, plus a fuel surcharge. Without a car, take the Canada Line and bus 620 to Tsawwassen, then BC Transit from Swartz Bay. Floatplanes and helicopters fly city centre to city centre in about 35 minutes.
The main ferry route: Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay
The scheduled crossing time is about 1 hour 35 minutes (BC Ferries).
| Fare (effective June 16, 2026) | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult (terminal fare) | $21.00 (Saver fares from $15) |
| Child 5–11 | $10.50 |
| Standard vehicle (terminal fare) | $89.00 (Saver fares $34–84) |
A 5% fuel surcharge is added. Terminal fares don’t include a reservation; Prepaid and Saver fares include one. Source: BC Ferries fare index. Fares change, so confirm when booking.
Reserve in summer
Vehicle space fills up on summer weekends and holidays. Reserving (or buying a Saver fare) guarantees your sailing.
Without a car
- Vancouver side: Canada Line to Bridgeport Station, then bus 620 to Tsawwassen terminal (TransLink).
- Victoria side: BC Transit routes 70 or 72 run from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria. BC Transit warned of some cancellations in fall 2026, so check service alerts on BC Transit Victoria.
Alternative: Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo
If you’re heading to Tofino or up-island rather than Victoria, the Horseshoe Bay–Departure Bay (Nanaimo) route takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. See how to get to Tofino from Vancouver.
Faster: floatplane or helicopter
- Harbour Air floatplanes: about 35 minutes harbour to harbour.
- Helijet helicopters: about 35 minutes.
Check fares on each operator’s site; they vary with demand.
Once you arrive: our Victoria travel guide and Vancouver Island road trip.
Travel rules, prices and product details change. Check official government, airline and manufacturer sources before you book or buy.
